fire department's three-boat rescue neat isn't what it used to be -- rescue fleet isn't what it used to be. >> when it's running properly, it breaks up the ice and keeps the river open. >> reporter: lots of people are questioning whether john glenn is up to the job given the new threats to homeland security. d.c. fire officials confirmed the communication system is broken. the boat's radio cannot transit an automated distress call. >> part of the communication system doesn't work. they're using a much older system to communicate with one another. >> reporter: the coastguard documentation for the glenn has expired and that has the fire chief especially upset. >> it appears that the certification for the boat that should have been applied for back in august, the date was missed. >> reporter: built in 1962 this was already a used boat when the fire department got it. right now they estimate the cost of repairs about $700,000. where is that funding? >> we're still looking for it. >> reporter: it was nearly four years ago whena gust of wind helped push the spirit of washington into an fbi